What Is Periodontal Disease?
Gum disease (periodontal disease) is one of the leading causes of tooth loss in adults. It is a progressive condition caused by plaque and bacteria buildup along the gumline, leading to gum inflammation, infection, and bone loss if left untreated.
💡 The good news? When detected early, gum disease can be treated and even reversed to prevent long-term damage.
Stages of Periodontal Disease
1. Healthy Gums 🦷 ✅
✔ Firm, pink gums that fit snugly around teeth
✔ No bleeding or swelling
✔ Strong, healthy bone structure
2. Gingivitis – Early Stage of Gum Disease 🟡
At this stage, only soft gum tissue is affected, and damage is reversible with professional cleanings and improved oral care.
Symptoms of Gingivitis:
🔸 Swollen or bleeding gums
🔸 Persistent bad breath or metallic taste
🔸 Mild gum recession
🔸 Formation of small gaps between teeth
💡 Treatment: A professional cleaning and improved at-home oral hygiene can fully reverse gingivitis.
3. Early Periodontitis – Beginning Bone Loss 🟠
As gum inflammation worsens, periodontal pockets form, allowing bacteria, plaque, and food debris to collect below the gumline. These pockets become breeding grounds for infection, causing damage to the supporting bone.
Symptoms of Early Periodontitis:
🔸 Noticeable gum recession
🔸 Increased sensitivity
🔸 Mild to moderate bone loss detected on X-rays
💡 Treatment: Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) is required to remove bacteria and smooth the root surface, allowing gums to heal.
4. Moderate Periodontitis – Increased Bone Loss 🔴
At this stage, gum recession deepens, more bone is destroyed, and teeth begin to loosen due to lost structural support. Inflammation spreads, and discomfort may occur.
Symptoms of Moderate Periodontitis:
🔸 Loose teeth
🔸 More severe gum recession
🔸 Increased discomfort when chewing
🔸 Worsening bad breath
💡 Treatment: A combination of scaling and root planing, antibiotic therapy (Arestin®), and potential surgical interventions to halt progression.
5. Advanced Periodontitis – Severe Damage & Tooth Loss 🚨
Advanced periodontitis is a major cause of tooth loss, as the infection spreads deep below the gums, forming painful abscesses and significantly damaging bone and tissues.
Symptoms of Advanced Periodontitis:
🔸 Severe pain and gum infection
🔸 Pus-filled abscesses
🔸 Significant bone loss, leading to shifting or lost teeth
💡 Treatment: Pocket reduction surgery, bone grafting, or regenerative procedures may be necessary to save remaining teeth or prepare for dental implants.
Periodontal Treatments at Manhattan Dental Spa
1. Scaling & Root Planing (Deep Cleaning)
✔ Removes plaque and tartar below the gumline
✔ Smooths the root surface to promote gum reattachment
✔ Prevents further gum recession and bone loss
2. Periodontal Splinting (Stabilizing Loose Teeth)
✔ Secures teeth weakened by gum disease using composite resin, wire, or crowns
✔ Helps prevent further mobility and tooth loss
3. Arestin® Antibiotic Therapy
✔ Antibiotic microspheres placed in deep gum pockets to target infection
✔ No anesthesia required—fully dissolves on its own
✔ Enhances healing and reduces periodontal pocket depth
4. Crown Lengthening
✔ Removes excess gum tissue to expose more of the tooth
✔ Ideal for fixing a “gummy” smile or preparing for restorations
5. Gum Grafting (Receding Gum Treatment)
✔ Repairs gum recession by grafting tissue from the roof of the mouth
✔ Protects tooth roots from decay and sensitivity
✔ Restores a healthy, even gumline
6. Bone Grafting & Bone Regeneration
✔ Restores lost jawbone for dental implant support
✔ Uses synthetic or natural bone grafts to promote healing
7. Osseous Surgery (Pocket Reduction Surgery)
✔ Removes deep gum pockets to prevent future infection
✔ Reshapes bone to halt gum disease progression
8. Ridge Preservation (After Tooth Extraction)
✔ Prevents bone loss in an empty socket after tooth removal
✔ Maintains jawbone strength for future dental implants
Why Choose Manhattan Dental Spa for Periodontal Care?
🏆 Expert Periodontal Specialists – Skilled in preventative, non-surgical, and advanced gum treatments.
💎 State-of-the-Art Technology – We use digital imaging, laser therapy, and the latest surgical techniques.
🦷 Comprehensive, Patient-Centered Care – Every treatment plan is personalized for your gum health.
📍 Convenient Location in Murray Hill, Manhattan – Helping NYC patients achieve healthy gums and strong smiles.
FAQs About Periodontal Treatments
Does insurance cover periodontal treatments?
Many medically necessary periodontal procedures are covered by insurance. However, cosmetic gum treatments may not be covered.
Is scaling and root planing the same as a deep cleaning?
Yes! Scaling and root planing (deep cleaning) is a specialized procedure that removes plaque and tartar buildup beneath the gums.
How long does it take to recover from periodontal surgery?
- Gum grafting: ~2 weeks
- Pocket reduction surgery: ~10-14 days
- Bone grafting: Several months for full healing
Most patients resume normal activities within a few days.
Can periodontal disease be reversed?
Gingivitis (early gum disease) is reversible with professional care and improved oral hygiene. Advanced periodontitis requires treatment to prevent further damage.
Protect Your Gum Health – Schedule an Appointment Today!
Don’t wait until gum disease progresses—early treatment can save your teeth! Whether you need preventative care, deep cleaning, or advanced periodontal surgery, Manhattan Dental Spa is here to help.
📞 Call 212-683-2530 or book an appointment online today!